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Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

STEM Solutions

CNO Windows Developer

Chantilly, VA

Design, develop, and maintain low-level kernel-mode components, drivers, and subsystems for Windows platforms. * Perform reverse engineering of Windows binaries (both legitimate and malicious) to ...

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Nightwing

Windows Application Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Application Developers to support the design, development ... Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling

Nwis

Windows Application Developer

Sterling, VA

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Application Developers to support the design, development ... Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling

Nightwing

Windows Application Developer

Hamilton, VA

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Application Developers to support the design, development ... Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling Experience working in ...

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How much do entry level windows kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level windows kernel developer in the United States is $100,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $106,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer, you need a solid background in computer science fundamentals, C/C++ programming, and operating system concepts, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with Windows kernel internals, debugging tools like WinDbg, and version control systems such as Git is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in collaborating with teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills are essential to develop stable and secure low-level software that interacts closely with the Windows operating system.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level Windows Kernel Developers, and how can new hires overcome them?

Entry-level Windows Kernel Developers often face challenges such as understanding complex system internals, debugging low-level code, and ensuring system stability and security when making changes. New hires can overcome these hurdles by immersing themselves in official Microsoft documentation, actively participating in code reviews, and seeking mentorship from experienced team members. Collaborating closely with QA and security teams is also vital to ensure robust and secure kernel modules.

What are entry level Windows Kernel Developers?

Entry level Windows Kernel Developers are software engineers who specialize in developing, maintaining, and debugging the core part of the Windows operating system, known as the kernel. At the entry level, they typically assist in writing and testing low-level code that interacts closely with hardware, handles memory management, and manages system resources. They often work under the guidance of senior developers and may contribute to device drivers, system utilities, and security features. A strong background in C/C++ programming and a solid understanding of operating system concepts are typically required for this role.
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Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 1% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,265 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Windows Kernel & Vulnerability Research Engineer

thejosefgroup.com

Annapolis Junction, MD

Other

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Windows Kernel & Vulnerability Research Engineer

Chantilly, VA

TS/SCI to start

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct in-depth research into Windows internals, including system architecture, memory management, drivers, processes, and kernel-mode operations.
  • Perform reverse engineering of Windows binaries, drivers, and firmware using industry-standard tools.
  • Identify, analyze, and document zero-day vulnerabilities and security weaknesses across kernel and user-mode components.
  • Develop proof-of-concept (PoC) code to demonstrate impact and exploitability of discovered vulnerabilities.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to design mitigations, security patches, and hardening strategies.
  • Analyze exploit techniques, malware samples, and emerging threat vectors affecting Windows platforms.
  • Contribute to internal knowledge bases, tooling, and automation that streamline research workflows.
Required Qualifications
  • Strong understanding of Windows operating system internals, including kernel architecture, drivers, APIs, memory layout, and subsystem behavior.
  • Proficiency in C/C++, with experience writing or analyzing kernel-mode code and Windows drivers.
  • Expertise in reverse engineering tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, WinDbg, x64dbg, or Binary Ninja.
  • Solid grasp of assembly language (x86/x64) and low-level debugging.
  • Experience conducting vulnerability research or exploit development in Windows environments.
  • Familiarity with common exploit mitigation techniques (ASLR, DEP, CFG, SMEP/SMAP, etc.).
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience discovering and responsibly disclosing security vulnerabilities.
  • Knowledge of kernel exploitation techniques, sandbox escapes, or privilege escalation attacks.
  • Understanding of malware analysis, rootkits, or advanced persistent threats.
  • Contributions to open-source security tools or research publications.
  • Experience with scripting languages (Python, PowerShell) for automation.
Who You Are
  • Curious, analytical, and passionate about low-level technologies.
  • Comfortable diving into undocumented features and complex system behavior.
  • Able to work independently while collaborating effectively across teams.

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